Net zero: clean energy transition
The global drive for cleaner, cheaper and more secure energy sources presents a major opportunity for UK manufacturing businesses.
Energy innovation is constantly evolving, moving away from the legacy of fossil fuels and embracing sustainable alternatives. But this comes with challenges.
For example, greater use of electricity in households and industry requires significant investment to upgrade distribution networks to handle additional capacity. UK manufacturing businesses can help meet the additional demand.
Our mission
Our mission is to ensure UK manufacturing plays a leading role in achieving net zero by 2050, supporting industrial decarbonisation and building the capability to design and deliver the technologies, systems and supply chains needed for a greener future.
In line with the UK Government’s commitment to 95% low-carbon energy generation by 2030, our work supports both environmental goals and economic growth. The clean energy economy could be worth up to £1 trillion by 2030, with £50–60 billion in additional capital investment expected over the next decade.
In 2025-26, HVM Catapult will support more than 700 specialists to deliver around 1,000 business support activities—many with SMEs. This will leverage more than £61 million in commercial and collaborative R&D, focused on national energy and supply chain needs.
Collaboration
We collaborate closely with government, industry, academia, and partners like the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapultand Net Zero Technology Centre to accelerate clean energy solutions from concept to commercialisation.
By investing early in clean energy technologies, we’re helping UK businesses develop new products, skills, and capabilities—ensuring manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the UK’s net zero journey.
Our priority areas
Energy systems & infrastructure
Strengthening the UK’s grid and supply chain readiness.
Electrification
Advancing battery technologies, energy storage, and power electronics.
Wind
Scaling innovations in offshore wind, including floating turbines.
Nuclear
Supporting modularisation, advanced manufacturing, and decommissioning aligned with SMR ambitions.
Hydrogen
Leading supply chain development through the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative.